4 Essential Winter Eye Care Tips
This week has seen most of the country covered with snow and being bitterly cold. While the snow is something a lot of people will be enjoying they may forget to protect their eyes in this cold weather. Here are my 4 top tips to look after your eyes for the cold, snowy weather.
1. Sunglasses
It may sound strange to recommend wearing sunglasses in these conditions, but it is something I would definitely advise, especially when driving. In the winter months the sun is lower in the sky and when the sun reflects off the white snow it can really cause glare, particularly when driving. Also, long term sun exposure can attribute to the formation of cataracts. So, make sure you have a pair of sunglasses at hand in all weather conditions, even in the snow.
2. Keeping Warm
When we have been in the cold we can’t wait to get in and warm up but be mindful when using heaters such as blower or car heaters as this heat can really dry out your eyes. Direct any heat away from the face and try to avoid having central heating on higher than it needs to be.
3. Drink More
In winter our bodies thirst cycle changes and this combined with heating can dry out the eyes even more. Make a conscious effort to keep hydrated by drinking water, decaffeinated teas and coffee, and even having soups can increase hydration levels.
4. Protect Your Eyes
A lot of people can suffer with excessive teary eyes during the cold weather, especially when it is windy, so wearing some protective glasses or sunglasses can help reduce this symptom. Over tearing of eyes can also be a sign of eye dryness or infection, so if this develops suddenly make sure to book an appointment with an eye clinic so they can have a closer look at your eyes.
About the expert
Mr Hamada | Consultant Ophthalmologist and Corneal Surgeon
MD, MSc, DO (hons), FRCSEd, FRCOphth I am Samer, founder and consultant ophthalmic surgeon with over 20 years’ experience in ophthalmology. I am a world-renowned specialist in cornea, cataract and refractive surgery. I’m not only a leading surgeon but also the only dual fellowship trained in corneal diseases in children from reputable institutions in the UK. At Eye Clinic London I work closely with other consultant ophthalmologists, optometrists and orthoptists to achieve the best outcomes for our patients. Our main aim is to make sure our patients get the safest and best treatments available to them. We put your safety before anything else so you can rest assured that if you choose us you will be in the best and safest hands.
